Testing of integrated IGBT module/heat-pipe cooler system

A converter phase assembly demonstrator based on a heat pipe integrated with the AISiC baseplate of an IGBT module has been specified, designed and manufactured, and its performances have been tested. Full thermal characterization has been performed by measuring junction-ambient thermal impedance of the heat sink, for multiple power and air speed values, both in natural convection and in forced ventilation. Moreover reliability of critical regions of the items has been verified by ageing tests and thermal and acoustic analysis. It has been found that, for power lower than 1200 W, the integrated system thermal resistance is always lower than 80 /spl deg/C/kW, in natural convention, whereas it is lower than 28 /spl deg/C/kW in forced air ventilation at air speed of 3 m/s, so that the assembly is suited for fan-less traction converter in mass transit application, ventilation being ensured by vehicle motion only.